The three-hour season finale kicks off with five castaways vying for the title of Sole Survivor. Here's a strategic breakdown of the final contenders.

Survivor 49 Finale: The "RizGod" Reign or a Stunning Upset? 5 Castaways, 1 Crown

LOS ANGELES — The million-dollar question is finally set to be answered as Survivor 49 airs its three-hour finale and live aftershow tonight, Wednesday, December 17. After a season defined by fluid alliances and shocking blindsides, only five castaways remain: Kristina Mills, Rizo Velovic, Sage Ahrens-Nichols, Savannah Louie, and Sophi Balerdi. Each must navigate one final gauntlet of challenges and tribal councils to plead their case before the jury.

Final Five Contender Breakdown

Kristina Mills enters as the last original Hina member, which could secure her crucial jury votes from former tribemates. However, recent "sloppy" gameplay has raised doubts about her strategic acumen, making her path to the Final Tribal Council precarious.

Rizo Velovic, dubbed "RizGod," has been a masterful post-merge manipulator. His arsenal—stretching truths, playing a hidden immunity idol, and even faking an idol—has kept him in control. But his deceptive reputation could be his ultimate downfall if he can't convincingly justify his moves to a wary jury.

Sage Ahrens-Nichols has expertly navigated the season's chaotic social dynamics with emotional authenticity. Yet, that very reliance on personal bonds has left a trail of betrayed allies. Her win likely depends on eliminating power players like Savannah or Rizo before the end and delivering a flawless jury performance.

Sophi Balerdi has survived attending nearly every Tribal Council. Despite misplaying her "Knowledge is Power" advantage, she remains a potential game-flipper. Targeting the duo of Savannah and Rizo at the Final Five could position her for a winning Final Three narrative alongside Kristina and Sage.

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Savannah Louie has maintained a steady, under-the-radar presence, often letting bigger targets take the heat. This subtle strategy could propel her to the end, but she must articulate a compelling, active case for her game to win the jury's respect.

How to Watch and What to Expect

The finale promises a relentless pace with final immunity challenges, a last brutal vote, and the climactic Final Tribal Council, where the jury will interrogate the finalists. The live reunion aftershow will immediately follow, revealing the winner and unpacking the season's biggest moves.

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With no clear frontrunner, tonight’s outcome hinges on last-minute alliances, challenge wins, and a final persuasive plea for votes. In a season where perception is everything, the title of Sole Survivor will go to the castaway who best connects their journey to a winning narrative.

Source: CBS Survivor 49 preview materials and episodic analysis.